Republic of Ireland assistant manager Roy Keane says Manchester United’s Ashley Young is one of the reasons why the Red Devils have struggled defensively this season.
The ex-United midfielder, who was working as a pundit for ITV, believes Jose Mourinho hasn’t addressed the problems in the defence since being appointed manager in 2016.
“They haven’t sorted out the defensive problems they have had over the last few years and that will continue. The two centre-halves need to do better. I’ve always thought with Ashley Young in your back four, you are going to struggle,” he said, reports The Sun.
Young has operated as a makeshift left wing-back in a back-four with Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Antonio Valencia. The 32-year-old joined United from Aston Villa in 2011 and has gone on to make more than 180 appearances in all competitions.
The England international has been an ever-present this season, featuring in 20 Premier League outings for United, scoring two goals. Luke Shaw has provided some competition on the left, but he’s only played in one of the last four league games.
For now, Young appears to be the first-choice at left-back under Mourinho, but Keane clearly doesn’t believe it’s a right move. United have only conceded 19 goals in 27 league games this season, but they’ve only managed two clean sheets away from home since October.
Shaw could be a long-term option at left-back, as Young is in the eve of his career. The 22-year-old is out of contract in the summer but a new deal has been mooted.
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